An earring can be described as a piece of jewelery that is worn on the ear. Earrings are often made out of metal but can also be made out of bone or similar hard material. Earrings are worn by both genders, although they are generally more commonly worn by women. In present times, earrings is one of the most important fashion accessory for women. In several communities, women see it as a necessary part of women's semblance.
Earrings are attached to the ear through a piercing in the earlobe or some other external part of the ear. Locations, used other than the earlobe for piercings include the Rook, Tragus or across the Helix. The term 'ear piercing' refers to an earlobe piercing. Piercings in the upper part of the external ear are referred to as 'cartilage piercings.' Cartilage piercings are more complex to perform than earlobe piercings, and take longer to heal.
An object of ornamentation, earring are made out of number of materials, including metal, glass, precious stones and beads. Designs of earring range from bali (small loops) or studs to large plates or danglers or jhumkas. The size of earrings a person wears is generally limited by the physical capacity of the earlobe to hold the earring without tearing. People who habitually wear heavy earrings may find that over time, the earlobe and piercing stretch. It is seen that in parties of formal occasions women go in for larger and more prominent earrings. Men who like sport earrings usually wear studs or small loops.
In several south Asian countries, including India, there is a tradition of piercing the ears of newborn babies. The earrings are worn long into old age. While fancy, jeweled earrings are often reserved for evening wear, every other shape and style can be worn with any fashion, either casual or formal, night or day.